Da Cruz identifies decision-making and composure in the third as key areas to attend to for Chiefs

Da Cruz identifies decision-making and composure in the third as key areas to attend to for Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz was left disappointed after his team was eliminated in the MTN8 by Golden Arrows, losing 1-0 at FNB Stadium yesterday, and believes that the players need to improve their decision-making in the final third.

Chiefs had big chances in the first half to take the lead, with Nkosingiphile Ngcobo in particular missing at least two crucial chances. Against the run of play, Arrows returned to take the lead early in the second half through Khulekani Shezi. Da Cruz bemoaned the lack of composure in their finishing.

"On the 3-4 big chances we had in the first half, we had a lack of lucidity inside the box. Also, we were running after the score, we precipitated in our decision making. So, we need to be calm and it seems that we need to improve step by step," said Da Cruz

With some of the players in the Chiefs camp having missed the better part of pre-season in Spain, could it be a matter of them still being behind to catch up fitness-wise with the rest of the group. Da Cruz weighs in on this matter.

"We know that there are different physical statures in the squad. We work with that to find a good balance in the next few days and weeks. The most important thing is the mindset of the team. I am happy about the mindset of the team and the players coming back."

The loss now means Chiefs have lost out on another opportunity to chase some early silverware in the new season, after finishing the previous season, with nothing to show. Da Cruz says they now need to work hard and compete vigorously in the other competitions.

In this game, Da Cruz also handed debuts to two players, Adolf Mtasingwa Baterego and Langelihle Phili.Â